Bamboo Planting Day at Ruiru Dam on 8th June, 2019

Her Excellency, the First Lady Margaret Kenyatta called upon Kenyans to continue embracing conservation values and champion the management of forests and water towers.
The First Lady was speaking during this year’s Bamboo Planting Day at Ruiru Dam in Kiambu County on 8th June, 2019 where she led delegates from both public and private sectors in planting 10,000 tree seedlings comprising bamboo, indigenous and fruit trees.

“We have begun to understand and appreciate the true value of forests in our lives. Our forests and trees support human life in many ways including contributing to food security, medicinal value, and as an important economic and fuel source,” she said.
The First Lady further said it is inspiring to see communities where men, women and children participate in environmental conservation practices which will benefit them in years to come and industries taking the lead in matters of environment and natural resource management. Speaking at the same event, Environment and Forestry Cabinet Secretary Keriako Tobiko said the extreme weather experienced in our country is attributed to climate change and the consequences of our actions.

“It is our responsibility as citizens and corporate bodies to plant and nature 500 million trees per year for the next 5 years to achieve the 10 per cent forest cover by 2022 thus leaving a legacy for the next generation,” said the CS.
KEFRI Director Dr. Joshua Cheboiwo said the Institute has partnered with other organizations in growing bamboo due to its potential in forestry and environmental conservation.
“KEFRI has introduced bamboo varieties suitable for specific ecological zones in the country and has likewise rolled the technologies of propagation, management and utilization to other organizations and entrepreneurs,” said Dr. Cheboiwo.
The director added that bamboo will offer alternative renewable energy, employment and raw materials for manufacturing purposes.